Guwahati: In a glittering celebration of service and leadership, Lions District 322G hosted its much-anticipated Annual District Award Ceremony “Shukrana” in Guwahati on July 13. Organised under the inspiring leadership of District Governor Lion Seema Goenka, the event drew over 250 Lions members and leaders from across the district, marking a memorable evening of recognition, reflection, and camaraderie.

“Shukrana” honoured individuals and clubs that displayed outstanding commitment to the ideals of Lionism during the Lionistic year 2024-25. The ceremony witnessed emotional moments, standing ovations, and heartfelt speeches as key contributors were felicitated for their exceptional service.

Among the most notable honours, the “Outstanding Lion of the Year Award” was presented to four distinguished Lions: Cabinet Treasurer Lion Bikash Agarwal, Deputy Cabinet Secretary Lion Tapash Saha, LCIF Coordinator Lion Ritu Banka, and DC-CSR Lion Bijay Agarwal, for their tireless efforts and unwavering dedication throughout the year.

The highlight of the evening, however, was the conferring of the highest individual honour, the “Lion of the Year Award”, to Cabinet Secretary Lion Dilip Saraf. Receiving the award for the second consecutive year, Lion Saraf moved the audience with a deeply gracious acceptance speech.

Expressing gratitude to DG Lion Seema Goenka and the district team, he made a remarkable announcement declaring he would no longer accept any district awards in the future to allow space for others to be recognised. “Continuous recognition of one individual may unintentionally discourage others who are equally dedicated,” he remarked, drawing thunderous applause for his humility and leadership.

In club recognitions, the Best Club in Category-A (with PST) was jointly awarded to Lions Club of Gauhati and Lions Club of Guwahati Kamrupa, led by Presidents Lion Mahesh Sharma and Lion Nitu Bakhredia, respectively.

Lions Club of Silchar Care was adjudged Best Club in Category-B, while Lions Club of Silchar Dynamic claimed the top spot in Category-C. Among new clubs, Lions Club of Silchar Valley View emerged as the Best Club in Category-D.

The ceremony, praised for its elegance and energy, was hailed by many attendees as being reminiscent of the Filmfare Awards, thanks to its vibrant atmosphere and seamless organisation. From graceful presentations to enthusiastic cheers, “Shukrana” was not just an award ceremony it was a celebration of service, teamwork, and the spirit of Lionism.

As the curtains fell on the grand event, Lions across the district returned inspired and reinvigorated, ready to continue their mission of selfless service with renewed vigour.

Additional Recognitions:

The award for Best DC (District Chairperson) was conferred upon Lion Sanjay Sanganeria, while Lion Dilu Das was honoured as the Second Best DC.

In the Zone Chairperson category, the Best Zone Chairpersons were jointly awarded to Lion Subir Banik and Lion Nobina Majumder. Lion Shukanta Biswas was recognised as the Second Best Zone Chairperson.

Among Region Chairpersons, Lion Vishal Beriwal was named the Best Region Chairperson, while Lion Sabyasachi Rudra Gupta and Lion Shankar Prasad Chakraborty were jointly honoured as the Second Best Region Chairpersons.

In a special gesture from the DG Team, several Lions from Barak Valley received vibrant recognition for their contributions. These included Zone Chairmen Lion Sanjeev Roy and Lion Raj Pal, along with Lion Sumit Das, Lion Kinkini Dey Dutta, Lion Bandita Tribedi Roy, Lion Lucky Das, Lion Anup Roy, Lion Anup Dutta, Lion Sompa Debroy Dhar, Lion Indrani Bhattacharya, and others.

The recognitions, announced on July 16, 2025, added further colour and pride to the already jubilant “Shukrana” celebrations, reinforcing the collective spirit and unity of the Lions fraternity.